Michael Pihach

Toronto

Managing Editor, PAX Global Media @PAX_News. Travel Writer ✈️ | Photographer 📸| Piano/Guitar Player 🎹 🎸| Runner 🏃🏻 | Eat, Drink & Be, Mary! 🍸

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Celebrity’s river cruises to sail the Danube & Rhine, offer all-inclusive model: Brooks

1 week ago | paxnews.com | Michael Pihach

New details have emerged about Celebrity’s upcoming river cruise product, which will see the cruise line sail on two of Europe's most popular waterways. The premium cruise line, which will debut on Europe’s rivers in spring 2027, will kick off its new venture on the Danube and Rhine rivers. Celebrity will also offer an all-inclusive model, incorporating alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi and one excursion per port into fares.
David & Goliath: How one independent travel advisor took on the CRA-and won

1 week ago | paxnews.com | Michael Pihach

Ontario-based travel advisor Judith Coates of Wired for Travel has achieved what many in the industry deem impossible: she’s won a battle against the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) over $33,000 in COVID-era benefits. Last week, after a long fight, Coates received an official letter from the CRA confirming she was, in fact, eligible for both the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) and the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB). It marked the end of a multi-year saga.
WestJet completes integration of Sunwing Airlines - what agents need to know

1 week ago | paxnews.com | Michael Pihach

The WestJet Group has officially completed its integration of Sunwing Airlines, the company announced Wednesday (May 28). "Completing two airline consolidations in just two years—the first with Swoop in 2024 and now Sunwing—was complex and required coordination across every aspect of our business, from operational, labour, and regulatory areas to experiential and cultural elements," stated Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of the WestJet Group.
Türkiye to fine air travellers who unbuckle before full stop

1 week ago | news.paxeditions.com | Michael Pihach

Passengers on flights to Türkiye may now face fines if they unbuckle their seat belts, move into the aisle, or open overhead compartments before the aircraft has come to a complete stop after landing. According to new regulations from the country’s civil aviation authority, airlines operating in Türkiye must update their in-flight announcements to instruct passengers to stay seated with seat belts fastened until the plane has reached its final parking position.
TICO certification exam increasing to $150; consultations begin

1 week ago | paxnews.com | Michael Pihach

The Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) has initiated a focused consultation regarding proposed adjustments to the fees for its certification program and exam. With the ongoing evolution of the travel industry, TICO says it is updating its certification program and exam for individuals aspiring to become travel advisors and agency supervisors/managers.
WestJet completes integration of Sunwing Airlines - what agents need to know

1 week ago | news.paxeditions.com | Michael Pihach

The WestJet Group has officially completed its integration of Sunwing Airlines, the company announced Wednesday (May 28). "Completing two airline consolidations in just two years—the first with Swoop in 2024 and now Sunwing—was complex and required coordination across every aspect of our business, from operational, labour, and regulatory areas to experiential and cultural elements," stated Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of the WestJet Group.
Island time & festivals shine at One Caribbean Canada’s media marketplace

1 week ago | paxnews.com | Michael Pihach

As geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty ripple through the travel industry, Caribbean tourism is finding new opportunities amid the storm. That was one of the key takeaways at a media marketplace on Tuesday (May 27) hosted by One Caribbean Canada, a tourism organization and website dedicated to connecting Canadians with the Caribbean’s many islands.
WestJet CEO talks affordable air travel, tariffs & the U.S. downturn

1 week ago | paxnews.com | Michael Pihach

WestJet’s CEO believes that air travel in Canada is viewed as a luxury, but argues it should be recognized as an essential service. Speaking to the Calgary Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday (May 27), Alexis von Hoensbroech outlined actions Ottawa could take to make air travel more affordable for Canadians, beginning with lowering fees. “Canada is a country that needs air travel more than almost any other country,” said von Hoensbroech, as reported by the Calgary Herald.
Friesen Travel Group expands in Ontario with strategic acquisition

1 week ago | paxnews.com | Michael Pihach

Big things are happening at Friesen Travel Group. The company says it has acquired three established storefront locations in London, ON, marking a significant milestone in its expansion across Southwestern Ontario. The acquisition brings the company’s total to 16 storefronts across the province, with a 17th location set to open in Orillia later this summer.
Türkiye to fine air travellers who unbuckle before full stop

1 week ago | paxnews.com | Michael Pihach

Passengers on flights to Türkiye may now face fines if they unbuckle their seat belts, move into the aisle, or open overhead compartments before the aircraft has come to a complete stop after landing. According to new regulations from the country’s civil aviation authority, airlines operating in Türkiye must update their in-flight announcements to instruct passengers to stay seated with seat belts fastened until the plane has reached its final parking position.